Our experience at The Villages Regional Hospital:

[Biker Dog]

Our experience at The Villages Regional Hospital:
January 14, 2016

1030am> Took my Mother-in-law to Urgent Care for non-life threatening medical condition. We were told to take her to the ER at TVRH.

1120am> Arrived in the waiting area of the ER. We were the only people in the waiting area.

1259pm> Taken to an ER examining room.

2pm> Doctor examined her and decided to admit her for evaluation.

250pm> Even though she has BC/BS PPO insurance they required we pay a $300.00 deductible before they would admit her.

6pm> While still waiting in the ER Exam room for a patient room we had to ask for something for her to eat because she hadn't eaten all day. A volunteer found a turkey sandwich for her.

822pm> Finally moved her into a patient room which had a TV that didn't work.

This was our first experience with TVRH and may I say it was not a good experience. TVRH needs to be more organized and more attuned to the patient's needs during this emotional time.

Before all you good people start bashing this post, I must tell you that both of us have worked and one of us still works for a major trauma center not in this area.
:(

[alwann]

I can relate. Checked my spouse in for out-patient surgery and was required to pay insurance co-pay up front -- some $2000 -- yet she was in there for only four hours for minor surgery. Now three months later they've sent me an $1100 refund. Evidently even they don't understand what's going on with health insurance these days.

[cologal]

Our experience at The Villages Regional Hospital:
January 14, 2016

1030am> Took my Mother-in-law to Urgent Care for non-life threatening medical condition. We were told to take her to the ER at TVRH.

1120am> Arrived in the waiting area of the ER. We were the only people in the waiting area.

1259pm> Taken to an ER examining room.

2pm> Doctor examined her and decided to admit her for evaluation.

250pm> Even though she has BC/BS PPO insurance they required we pay a $300.00 deductible before they would admit her.

6pm> While still waiting in the ER Exam room for a patient room we had to ask for something for her to eat because she hadn't eaten all day. A volunteer found a turkey sandwich for her.

822pm> Finally moved her into a patient room which had a TV that didn't work.

This was our first experience with TVRH and may I say it was not a good experience. TVRH needs to be more organized and more attuned to the patient's needs during this emotional time.

Before all you good people start bashing this post, I must tell you that both of us have worked and one of us still works for a major trauma center not in this area.
:(

Not an usual experience at TVRH.... My roommate inhaled chorline gas while working on the hot tub. She needed oxygen so we went to the Urgent Care at TVRH when we explained the issue the doctor refused to see her so off to the ER we went. There was a 4 hour wait we explained about the Urgent Care doctor to which they replied "Our Urgent Care does absolutely nothing". We signed in but went back to Urgent Care to talk to the Doctor. His explanation blew us away he was not going to treat her because of a fear of malpractice.

So we waited in the ER...they gave her oxygen and steroids. The ER doctors we great. We NEVER go to that Urgent Care again.

As for the billing issue, I have been in the ER a couple of times since moving to TV. Its always the same if you are being admitted a women with a rolling cart comes up telling you what you owe and demands a credit card. As a former medical type myself I know my insurance deductibles by heart. Once she was demanding I pay the balance of my deductible and a copay of $100.00 for the ER.
I explained if I was being admitted the ER fee was waived with my insurance. After some back an forth it became apparent I was going to have to pay a fee I didn't owe. I did get the 100 back but...

After several experiences as this hospital I go to Leesburg now.

[kansasr]

While I can't fault the care recently received at this ER, there needs to be some serious improvement with communication with the patient during the process. I arrived with my 89 year old mother a little before noon to a fairly quiet ER and finally got out of there shortly after 5pm. Most of the time was spent waiting, wondering if we had been forgotten. (Which actually happened to a man who arrived around the same time we did and I saw going through the parking lot when we were leaving. When I asked if everything was ok, he said he had just left because they hard parked him in a room and forgotten him for about 3 hours, so he just gave up.)

Around 4pm I finally had to ask for something eat for Mom, since she hadn't eaten since breakfast. Fortunately I asked one of the ER docs, who disappeared for a minute and came back with a sandwich box.

And you're right. Probably the most interaction we had with staff during the entire process was the "paperwork" people who made sure they got a credit card for the insurance co-pay.

[Cedwards38]

Not an usual experience at TVRH.... My roommate inhaled chorline gas while working on the hot tub. She needed oxygen so we went to the Urgent Care at TVRH when we explained the issue the doctor refused to see her so off to the ER we went. There was a 4 hour wait we explained about the Urgent Care doctor to which they replied "Our Urgent Care does absolutely nothing". We signed in but went back to Urgent Care to talk to the Doctor. His explanation blew us away he was not going to treat her because of a fear of malpractice.

So we waited in the ER...they gave her oxygen and steroids. The ER doctors we great. We NEVER go to that Urgent Care again.

As for the billing issue, I have been in the ER a couple of times since moving to TV. Its always the same if you are being admitted a women with a rolling cart comes up telling you what you owe and demands a credit card. As a former medical type myself I know my insurance deductibles by heart. Once she was demanding I pay the balance of my deductible and a copay of $100.00 for the ER.
I explained if I was being admitted the ER fee was waived with my insurance. After some back an forth it became apparent I was going to have to pay a fee I didn't owe. I did get the 100 back but...

After several experiences as this hospital I go to Leesburg now.

Isn't TVRH and the Leesburg Hospital owned by the same corporation? I wonder why the difference!

[Dynsol]

Now being three years of reading the TOV I do not think I have read more than three positive things about the Village Hospital especially the ER.

How can this place continue to be so inept. Maybe they need a change of management to correct the ills that constantly continue!

I know from my personal experience and now I go to Leesburg or Moffitt.

[justjim]

Now being three years of reading the TOV I do not think I have read more than three positive things about the Village Hospital especially the ER.

How can this place continue to be so inept. Maybe they need a change of management to correct the ills that constantly continue!

I know from my personal experience and now I go to Leesburg or Moffitt.

We can all agree no place is perfect but one could hope our closest hospital would strive to be better. "Growing pains" will cause issues but it appears from most threads regarding TVRH they are all about negative ER experiences. Perhaps you are correct, a change in management could very well be in order. I am sure there are good doctors, nurses and other employees at TVRH.

[gomoho]

I can tell you horror stories about the ER at Leesburg. They all have problems.

[Phanatic Luvr]

Honestly .... this is one issue which really scares me living in The Villages. Just my opinion of course.

[billybye]

Twice I was admitted to TVRH via ER and both times I was asked to pay my co-pay before admittance. Both times I insisted they send me a bill and they did after being released. You can't blame them for trying.
Also both times my care there was excellent, except for a long wait for a room to open up. You take the good with the bad.

[Mudder]

I agree with Billybob. They ask for payment, we tell them to bill us......they do in about three months. In Leesburg recently, day after serious surgery financial person comes to my room asks me if I can pay my bill. I laughed thru my pain and said, do you really think I have my wallet here? I said bill me, haven't got the bill yet. We always ask for a detailed line item copy of the bill. You have to wait a while after discharge but you can get it for either hospital at TVRH.

[rustyp]

Same experience about the billing. I used to explain that I do not pay until I see an itemized bill. Also I used to have an HSA account and there was a time when you could not put money back into the account if they sent you a refund thus you would end up with tax free money in your hand (not legal). That has been remedied within the last few years. I just avoid the whole conversation now by telling them I don't have the money now and I have to move things around to get it but it will be done by the time you bill arrives at my house.

[manaboutown]

Honestly .... this is one issue which really scares me living in The Villages. Just my opinion of course.

:agree:

[HoosierPa]

Being new, this is very concerning. Are there any really excellent Hospitals within a 45 minute drive of The Villages ?

[MrGolf]

If I have an. Issue I am going to Orlando or Tampa. Without question nor reservation. TVRH is a joke.

[Johnd]

Have used TVRH emergency room twice; last time about 2 months ago. Both times with serious symptoms late at night. Room mobbed both times. Seen both times by admitting nurse within an hour. Admitted both times within 2 hours. Presented insurance cards and had no issues whatever. Very pleased with 1st ER doctor; 2nd one more on average side. Satisfied with TVRH.

[zcaveman]

Being new, this is very concerning. Are there any really excellent Hospitals within a 45 minute drive of The Villages ?

Ocala - Munroe (MRMC) and Ocala (ORMC) hospitals

Z

[angiefox10]

No bashing from me. I posted a very long, as detailed post as I could muster and was bashed by just about every post. You were lucky. My experience was scary. The staff knew I was going to complain and were coming to me telling me stories that would curl your toes. It's Shants for me!

Thanks for posting. Each post will make it easier for the next person and maybe more people will pay attention.

Oh.. and if you want to make a "formal" complaint. You have to mail the letter to Oak Brook, IL.

Good luck!

[rjm1cc]

The problem with the copay is probably if they do not get it up front they do not get it.

[Mudder]

If you're having a heart attack or stroke, good luck with calmly driving to Tampa, Orlando or Gainesville.

[dbussone]

Isn't TVRH and the Leesburg Hospital owned by the same corporation? I wonder why the difference!


Yes, both are part of the Central FL Health Alliance. My educated guess is that any differences would be related to management at the two individual campuses. System management should be responsible for coordinating the use of common practices and processes, after researching and identifying best practices.

[NYGUY]

...Are there any really excellent Hospitals within a 45 minute drive of The Villages ?

No!!

[oot]

My mom was rushed there for a broken hip. Yes, I sat in the ER waiting for someone to call me so I could be with her for about 1 1/2 hours, until I inquired then was taken to her.

But the care she received while there was actually very good. The nursing staff was very attentive (as she suffers with memory issues) and tried to calm her down when she was confused and nervous. The surgery went well and overall I can say it was I was happy with the care they gave her. I have heard a lot of horror stories, but the EMS driver said that would be best place for a hip fracture...as they are well experienced in treating them.

So I guess I am one of the odd ones who is happy I went there with her.

[Sable99]

I haven't had any experience with TVRH. But, I help 4 seniors over 87 and I have spent a lot of time in emergency rooms in Michigan. My mother says you can never go to the ER for less than 6 hours.

Last year, I took my aunt to our local hospital before she was transferred to St. Joseph Hospital in Ypsilanti. (She had fallen on the ice and landed on her head.) After spending hours in the ER, I asked what was the hold up. It turns out she had a blood test in Adrian that required two testings. The two tests had to be 6 hours apart. It might of helped if they told us that so we didn't think we were being ignored. We spent over 12 hours in 2nd emergency room before she was sent to a room overnight for observation. And no, they wouldn't give her anything to eat until they knew the results of the tests.

Maybe there is a reason they were kept in the ER that you didn't know about. I will say they have never had to pay their co-pay before they were treated. I've never heard of that.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

For some reason, there seems to be a problem with medical support staff in this area. The staff in just about every medical and dental office that I visit seem to be incompetent. There usually are a few decent people, mostly nurses, in every office that know how to do the job.

I actually complained to one doctor about his staff. He closed the door to the room we were in and in a whispered tone said, "I don't know what to do. We keep hiring different people but none of them seem to care. It's very frustrating for me working with these people."

I find that the doctors, dentists and most of the nurses are very good. The support staff seems to not understand their job or not care about how or if it gets done. It seems to be an endemic problem in this area.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Yes, both are part of the Central FL Health Alliance. My educated guess is that any differences would be related to management at the two individual campuses. System management should be responsible for coordinating the use of common practices and processes, after researching and identifying best practices.

I had a horrendous experience at Leesburg Hospital. Again, once I saw my doctor every thing was fine. He took excellent care of me but the support staff, again, had no interest in giving me any information or letting me know what was happening.

I was sen there by my primary care who called a specialist down there to have me evaluated. I was told to go to the desk and tell them that Dr. so and so was waiting for me. They had an ER doc examine me and admitted me. I explained over and over that I was supposed to see Dr so and so but they kept telling me that he was busy.

I finally met him the next day in the operating room. He told me that no one told him that I had arrived the day before. In fact, he called my primary care doc and told him that I hadn't shown up.

When I saw my primary care for a check up a few days later he told me that the specialist that had done my surgery was very sorry and embarrassed about the whole situation

In Boston, I found the staffs to be outstanding. They were always aware of situation and knew how to get the job done correctly. I don't know why they can't find decent people down here.

[Miles42]

Leesburgh is the closes hospital that I would go to. Florida Orlando is an excellent facility. If your having a heart attack tell the EMT to take your to Leesburgh.

[dbussone]

Season is a difficult time for hospitals in Florida. Not making excuses but the fact is that it can be difficult to staff a hospital with the significant swings in hospital procedures and admissions they experience. Temporary staff are seldom as proficient as permanent employees but sufficient full time staff year round is generally cost prohibitive.

[John_W]

My neighbor was riding his scooter in 2014 at night and was run off the road. He was knocked unconscious and was laying on the shoulder of the road near 301 just north of Wildwood. He was found in the morning by the police and they called for an ambulance. They took him to Ocala to Ocala Regional Hospital, he had no memory of anything.

He said he had wonderful care and liked the staff and everyone there. When we visited it didn't take long to go there. Just get on 301 and go north into Ocala and a couple of blocks before the Hwy 200 left turn to the car dealers, you'll see tall buildings on the right. You should see a blue H hospital sign, you'll turn right and there be two hospitals. The first hospital closest to 301 is Munroe Regional Medical Center, the one just east of that is Ocala Regional Medical Center. It's only about 4 stories, it's the shorter of the two hospitals. I always made a note of that in my mind, that if I needed a hospital, that is where I'm going.

http://www.insideflorida.com/images/cities/ocala_regional_hospital_sign_medium.jpg

http://www.insideflorida.com/images/cities/ocala_regional_hospital_medium.jpg

[Madelaine Amee]

In Boston, I found the staffs to be outstanding. They were always aware of situation and knew how to get the job done correctly. I don't know why they can't find decent people down here.

Boston - my doctors were at Beth Israel in Boston. I had surgery there, more years ago than I care to remember, and one of the nurses told me she was making $38 per hour! That is why you have good support staff in the big cities - decent pay! Our pay scale in this area is disgraceful for anyone trying to make a career, but if you are a retired nurse from one of the major hospitals who just wants to do a few hours to keep busy, the local pay scale is acceptable. I've had two major surgical procedures here in our local hospital and both times the nurses supporting my surgeon were retirees from Chicago General, a Boston hospital and the Mayo Clinic. All worked only with this surgeon.

[Floridagal]

Took my husband to the primary doctor as he was having severe pain in his stomach. After examining him she told us to go right over to the ER as he had a larger hernia and the surgeon would see him immediately. When we arrived his was taken to a room in the ER and the doctor came about 2 hours later. My husband was operated that night at 6:00. He had to stay in the hospital five days and I can not say enough about the great care he got. Everyone was friendly and helpful. I was in The Villages hospital quite a a few times over the years and I can say I had excellent service all around.

From reading everything on here, I guess we were one of the lucky ones.

[jojo]

Having followed TVRH posts for several years on TOTV, it appears that most of the negative experiences at TVRH are in the Emergency Room. Do others who have followed long term discussions have the same perception? It's my understanding that they have just expanded the ER physically. The question is whether adequate staffing will follow.

[dbussone]

Having followed TVRH posts for several years on TOTV, it appears that most of the negative experiences at TVRH are in the Emergency Room. Do others who have followed long term discussions have the same perception? It's my understanding that they have just expanded the ER physically. The question is whether adequate staffing will follow.


I would say you have identified the key issue. Increasing the size of the ER without adding staff and improving processes will only make things worse.

My wife has had two ER visits and neither was acceptable. However her associated hospital stays were fine.

My personal (and professional) opinion is that the root problem in the ER is with the ER staff physicians. I don't know if they are understaffed, have an improper doc to PA ratio, or what the problem is. But they are the care bottleneck until something else surfaces. After one visit an orthopedic surgeon told us he complained to administration about the (lack of) care my wife received by the ER doc.

[Bonny]

I had 3 different trips to emergency. One was a rather long wait, however it was crowded and there were some worse than I.
Last year alone I was admitted 3 times. 3 or 4 nights in April, 5 nights in May & 9 in August. The August visit I was flown in by air ambulance jet from St. Maarten after being in their hospital for 3 days.
I have to say, I had wonderful care in The Villages and truly thank everyone I came in contact with. I also had great care in St. Maarten.
I have also been admitted here a couple of other times previously.
I used to work at William Beaumont Hospital in Michigan in the 70's. Its one of the better hospitals. There were horror stories back then also. Not much different than I hear now.

[salpal]

A couple of years ago, my 90 year old Mother was taken to the hospital because she had a fall. I stayed with her, but was informed they were probably going to keep her overnight, so I went home. An hour later, I received a call saying she was being discharged and I could pick her up. When I drove up to the pick up area, she was standing outside, all alone. My Mom has severe dementia and could have easily wondered off. I wrote the hospital about the incident and got the usual " sorry about that" response.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Boston - my doctors were at Beth Israel in Boston. I had surgery there, more years ago than I care to remember, and one of the nurses told me she was making $38 per hour! That is why you have good support staff in the big cities - decent pay! Our pay scale in this area is disgraceful for anyone trying to make a career, but if you are a retired nurse from one of the major hospitals who just wants to do a few hours to keep busy, the local pay scale is acceptable. I've had two major surgical procedures here in our local hospital and both times the nurses supporting my surgeon were retirees from Chicago General, a Boston hospital and the Mayo Clinic. All worked only with this surgeon.

Like I said in my post, most of the nurses that I've run into have been excellent. It's the rest of the office staff that seems to be clueless. when I call my doctor's office now, I ask to speak to one of his nurses because no one else seems to have any idea what I'm talking about.

What do nurses make around here. I know when I had my first back surgery at Mass General back in 1990, my nurses were making $42.00 per hour. But they were orthopedic specialists. I don't know that general nurses were making that kind of money.

[Xcuse]

My wife and I have both recently had out-patient surgery at the Villages hospital and found it to be very professional and well organized. It was scheduled and not through the ER but we are very satisfied with the experience. They did require a copay upfront and we are still dealing with the insurance over the bill.

[2BNTV]

I agree that some doctors have problems with their support staff. Some of their offices are run poorly.

I remember when some people of their support staff left their practice and chaos seem to be the norm. IMHO

Most doctors take this issue seriously and some are unaware, unless a patient complains. Some doctors will take steps to rectify the situation and some will back their staff.

My hope is that will TVRH expanding. these issue will start to be a function of the bad, being replaced with the good. Only time will tell.

[golfing eagles]

Boston - my doctors were at Beth Israel in Boston. I had surgery there, more years ago than I care to remember, and one of the nurses told me she was making $38 per hour! That is why you have good support staff in the big cities - decent pay! Our pay scale in this area is disgraceful for anyone trying to make a career, but if you are a retired nurse from one of the major hospitals who just wants to do a few hours to keep busy, the local pay scale is acceptable. I've had two major surgical procedures here in our local hospital and both times the nurses supporting my surgeon were retirees from Chicago General, a Boston hospital and the Mayo Clinic. All worked only with this surgeon.

And the cost of living in Boston is??????
You're comparing apples and oranges
BTW, my son had hip surgery after a MVA at Beth Israel, generally considered one of the best hospitals in the world, and the nursing care was atrocious. You cannot buy dedication.

[golfing eagles]

Took my husband to the primary doctor as he was having severe pain in his stomach. After examining him she told us to go right over to the ER as he had a larger hernia and the surgeon would see him immediately. When we arrived his was taken to a room in the ER and the doctor came about 2 hours later. My husband was operated that night at 6:00. He had to stay in the hospital five days and I can not say enough about the great care he got. Everyone was friendly and helpful. I was in The Villages hospital quite a a few times over the years and I can say I had excellent service all around.

From reading everything on here, I guess we were one of the lucky ones.

Perhaps, but a forum such as this one tends to give readers a skewed perception. Anyone with an "average, met expectations" to a very good experience are unlikely to post it. The people with a truly excellent experience may post that. BUT...those with a truly negative experience or those that THINK they had a negative experience post, and post, and post.....

[dbussone]

And the cost of living in Boston is??????
You're comparing apples and oranges
BTW, my son had hip surgery after a MVA at Beth Israel, generally considered one of the best hospitals in the world, and the nursing care was atrocious. You cannot buy dedication.

True enough! My wife trained at Mass General. Nursing has changed dramatically since she graduated - and not always for the better. Beth Israel, as you noted, is a great example. When Mitch Rabkin was CEO the nursing care was also world class. Personally, I don't believe unions have elevated either the profession or skills of RNs.

[dbussone]

Perhaps, but a forum such as this one tends to give readers a skewed perception. Anyone with an "average, met expectations" to a very good experience are unlikely to post it. The people with a truly excellent experience may post that. BUT...those with a truly negative experience or those that THINK they had a negative experience post, and post, and post.....

Think of Las Vegas, for a minute. Now think of the extreme level of customer service promoted by the City and the vast majority of its businesses. The patients in Las Vegas hospitals, by absorption, have that same level of expectation for superior customer service. If Las Vegas hospitals can do it, all hospitals can do it....including hospitals in this area. Unfortunately they don't seem to make it a priority.

[hulahips]

My girlfriend had her husband admitted by ambulance last week. He sat in waiting room 8 hrs before anyone looked at him. She was furious but said waiting room was standing room only. We had bday cake for her that might but needless to say they never made it

[dillywho]

I would say you have identified the key issue. Increasing the size of the ER without adding staff and improving processes will only make things worse.

My wife has had two ER visits and neither was acceptable. However her associated hospital stays were fine.

My personal (and professional) opinion is that the root problem in the ER is with the ER staff physicians. I don't know if they are understaffed, have an improper doc to PA ratio, or what the problem is. But they are the care bottleneck until something else surfaces. After one visit an orthopedic surgeon told us he complained to administration about the (lack of) care my wife received by the ER doc.

When my husband was there a couple of weeks ago, I learned that many of their doctors have left to go with the Villages Health Care System that has been set up in several locations in The Villages. They are trying to get more in but are stretched pretty thin in the meantime.

[dillywho]

My girlfriend had her husband admitted by ambulance last week. He sat in waiting room 8 hrs before anyone looked at him. She was furious but said waiting room was standing room only. We had bday cake for her that might but needless to say they never made it

He would have been evaluated initially by the first responders which is relayed to the ER personnel. If he was not in imminent danger, then he would have to wait his turn. Going by ambulance does not equal faster service at the hospital if not medically warranted.

Unfortunately, too many are using the ER doctors as their primary because they cannot be turned away. Urgent Care does not have to follow the same rules and can turn people away.

[dillywho]

:BigApplause::BigApplause:I haven't had any experience with TVRH. But, I help 4 seniors over 87 and I have spent a lot of time in emergency rooms in Michigan. My mother says you can never go to the ER for less than 6 hours.

Last year, I took my aunt to our local hospital before she was transferred to St. Joseph Hospital in Ypsilanti. (She had fallen on the ice and landed on her head.) After spending hours in the ER, I asked what was the hold up. It turns out she had a blood test in Adrian that required two testings. The two tests had to be 6 hours apart. It might of helped if they told us that so we didn't think we were being ignored. We spent over 12 hours in 2nd emergency room before she was sent to a room overnight for observation. And no, they wouldn't give her anything to eat until they knew the results of the tests.

Maybe there is a reason they were kept in the ER that you didn't know about. I will say they have never had to pay their co-pay before they were treated. I've never heard of that.

[dillywho]

Leesburgh is the closes hospital that I would go to. Florida Orlando is an excellent facility. If your having a heart attack tell the EMT to take your to Leesburgh.

My husband would never have made it to Leesburg. I still have him because TVRH is here.

[dillywho]

Our experience at The Villages Regional Hospital:
January 14, 2016

1030am> Took my Mother-in-law to Urgent Care for non-life threatening medical condition. We were told to take her to the ER at TVRH.

1120am> Arrived in the waiting area of the ER. We were the only people in the waiting area.

1259pm> Taken to an ER examining room.

2pm> Doctor examined her and decided to admit her for evaluation.

250pm> Even though she has BC/BS PPO insurance they required we pay a $300.00 deductible before they would admit her.

6pm> While still waiting in the ER Exam room for a patient room we had to ask for something for her to eat because she hadn't eaten all day. A volunteer found a turkey sandwich for her.

822pm> Finally moved her into a patient room which had a TV that didn't work.

This was our first experience with TVRH and may I say it was not a good experience. TVRH needs to be more organized and more attuned to the patient's needs during this emotional time.

Before all you good people start bashing this post, I must tell you that both of us have worked and one of us still works for a major trauma center not in this area.
:(

TVRH has saved my husband's life 3 times. We have been here for 13 years now, and at no time have we EVER had to pay a deductible up front. Your ability to pay has nothing to do with whether you are admitted or treated. They are required to take care of you. They can ask, but they cannot demand.

Even when we had original Medicare, I was never asked for the deductible up front. We now have Humana PPOs and all I ever pay is the co-pay, but could just as well have them bill me for it. I just choose not to. If we are admitted, the ER co-pay is credited toward the bill. The financial person comes to the floor later and tells you what your obligation will be according to your insurance and even tells you that arrangements can be made for payment.

Your wait may have been long even though you were the only ones in the waiting room because others before you were being evaluated/treated at the time of your arrival. While waiting to be admitted, the doctor has to make the determination as to whether or not the patient can have food/drink regardless of when the person last ate. If testing is being done or going to be ordered, food/drink can interfere with or postpone any necessary tests.

Being in the field yourself, you should know the drill and cut them some slack. I know of no hospital anywhere that does not have issues of some sort. Medicine is more often than not not exact. Things happen even in trauma hospitals in spite of the most diligent efforts of everyone. Many do not understand why their loved ones don't make it, no matter how well it is explained to them. Life just happens.

I sincerely hope that your Mom is fine now. As for the room without the working TV, as packed as that hospital stays (especially this time of year), she was fortunate to get any room that quickly.

By the way, my husband was admitted for observation on January 11 after being sent to the ER from Florida Heart & Vascular for unstable BP. Our wait for a room was much longer, some 12 hours, but the experience was totally positive. The nurses kept a close check on him and one even went above and beyond to bring me a more comfortable chair while we waited for a room to open up.

One thing I would like to tell you about, in case you don't already know, is one of the rules governing Observation Admissions per Medicare. You have to take your meds from home, turn them in to the patient's nurse who will then send them to the pharmacy to be approved. They will then be sent back to the floor, place in a bin for that patient, and dispensed by the nurse. Medicare will NOT pay for meds when you are only in for observation. If you are subsequently admitted, then they start to pick up the cost and yours are sent back home. You don't have to bring your own, but if the hospital uses theirs, then you get billed for them and it can be REALLY expensive.

[GypsySooners]

I got my foot under my mower a few years ago. It was my first time to this emergency room and I was, not only treated quickly and professionally, I was processed without any exchange of money. Now I do have Medicare and BCBS through my OPM (government) retirement.

I was very pleased with this hospital

[dbussone]

TVRH has saved my husband's life 3 times. We have been here for 13 years now, and at no time have we EVER had to pay a deductible up front. Your ability to pay has nothing to do with whether you are admitted or treated. They are required to take care of you. They can ask, but they cannot demand.



Even when we had original Medicare, I was never asked for the deductible up front. We now have Humana PPOs and all I ever pay is the co-pay, but could just as well have them bill me for it. I just choose not to. If we are admitted, the ER co-pay is credited toward the bill. The financial person comes to the floor later and tells you what your obligation will be according to your insurance and even tells you that arrangements can be made for payment.



Your wait may have been long even though you were the only ones in the waiting room because others before you were being evaluated/treated at the time of your arrival. While waiting to be admitted, the doctor has to make the determination as to whether or not the patient can have food/drink regardless of when the person last ate. If testing is being done or going to be ordered, food/drink can interfere with or postpone any necessary tests.



Being in the field yourself, you should know the drill and cut them some slack. I know of no hospital anywhere that does not have issues of some sort. Medicine is more often than not not exact. Things happen even in trauma hospitals in spite of the most diligent efforts of everyone. Many do not understand why their loved ones don't make it, no matter how well it is explained to them. Life just happens.



I sincerely hope that your Mom is fine now. As for the room without the working TV, as packed as that hospital stays (especially this time of year), she was fortunate to get any room that quickly.



By the way, my husband was admitted for observation on January 11 after being sent to the ER from Florida Heart & Vascular for unstable BP. Our wait for a room was much longer, some 12 hours, but the experience was totally positive. The nurses kept a close check on him and one even went above and beyond to bring me a more comfortable chair while we waited for a room to open up.



One thing I would like to tell you about, in case you don't already know, is one of the rules governing Observation Admissions per Medicare. You have to take your meds from home, turn them in to the patient's nurse who will then send them to the pharmacy to be approved. They will then be sent back to the floor, place in a bin for that patient, and dispensed by the nurse. Medicare will NOT pay for meds when you are only in for observation. If you are subsequently admitted, then they start to pick up the cost and yours are sent back home. You don't have to bring your own, but if the hospital uses theirs, then you get billed for them and it can be REALLY expensive.


Just to correct a common misconception - hospitals are NOT required to treat all comers - only true emergency patients. ALL patients must be triaged to determine their status and condition. (Typically this is done by an RN or PA. A physician is not a required participant, but frequently is for medico-legal purposes.). If the patient's condition is determined to be non-emergent, the hospital need not treat unless the patient pays an appropriate co-pay or agrees to some form of post-treatment payment plan.

So, contrary to your statement, in non-emergent cases, a hospital CAN demand payment or refuse to treat. Most will try to work with patients for practical reasons. However, I am aware of numerous patients who are discharged without treatment by the ER. One common example would be a patient determined to be a drug seeker or other type of "frequent flyer."

A woman determined to be in labor is considered to be in an emergent condition which requires treatment - even if the hospital does not routinely provide OB services. The primary exception is if there is another hospital with OB services close enough to permit transfer by ambulance. The receiving hospital and patient must agree to the transfer.

I mention this latter situation because TVRH does not provide routine OB services but might find itself in a situation where a pregnant woman shows up at its ER.

[dillywho]

I am going by what ER told me when I said something about why some couldn't just go to Urgent Care instead of the ER. She said they have to take them but Urgent Care does not without payment. Since I pay anyway, I don't know for sure.

[dbussone]

I am going by what ER told me when I said something about why some couldn't just go to Urgent Care instead of the ER. She said they have to take them but Urgent Care does not without payment. Since I pay anyway, I don't know for sure.


True. Urgent Care offices are not required to take anybody. Hospitals are required to at least perform a triage to determine someone's status. But they are not required to treat unless it is a medical emergency.

Over the years I've paid a number of well-respected attorneys to keep me up to date on the law and keep the hospitals I was responsible for out of trouble.

I'm certainly pleased your husband has had good outcomes. Here's hoping 2016 is a great and healthy year for both of you.

[golf2140]

All the good employee's must take off from January to April. All these stories start during this time of year

[dbussone]

All the good employee's must take off from January to April. All these stories start during this time of year


Actually the good employees are still there. What happens is that the surge in patients requires that the hospital bring on a bunch of temporary and agency staff to help with the increased patient load.

[golfing eagles]

Just to correct a common misconception - hospitals are NOT required to treat all comers - only true emergency patients. ALL patients must be triaged to determine their status and condition. (Typically this is done by an RN or PA. A physician is not a required participant, but frequently is for medico-legal purposes.). If the patient's condition is determined to be non-emergent, the hospital need not treat unless the patient pays an appropriate co-pay or agrees to some form of post-treatment payment plan.

So, contrary to your statement, in non-emergent cases, a hospital CAN demand payment or refuse to treat. Most will try to work with patients for practical reasons. However, I am aware of numerous patients who are discharged without treatment by the ER. One common example would be a patient determined to be a drug seeker or other type of "frequent flyer."

A woman determined to be in labor is considered to be in an emergent condition which requires treatment - even if the hospital does not routinely provide OB services. The primary exception is if there is another hospital with OB services close enough to permit transfer by ambulance. The receiving hospital and patient must agree to the transfer.

I mention this latter situation because TVRH does not provide routine OB services but might find itself in a situation where a pregnant woman shows up at its ER.

True, but as a matter of practicality I've never heard of this happening. One of my partner's once had a patient who went the ER with a sore throat. He was properly examined by the physician, given a Rx for an antibiotic and sent home. An hour later he was brain dead from an extremely rare form of epiglottitis. Imagine if that patient was seen only by a "first responder", determined to be non-emergent, and transferred to another hospital due to inability to pay and died en route. $h!tst0rm wouldn't even begin to describe it.
As far as a woman in labor goes, there is a clear exception to the COBRA law if the hospital does not provide the service required. But they must be evaluated by the physician and stabilized to the extent possible. They may be transferred even if determined unstable if that option actually lessens the risk, but they better check every box on the COBRA form, send a nurse with the patient, clearly communicate the situation to the accepting physician, and then pray. After all, the COBRA law was passed in response to exactly this situation---an indigent pregnant woman in Texas that was transferred from a private to public hospital due to inability to pay, and had a bad outcome.

[Ray Roberts]

I think the Villages Regional Hospital must be a training hospital and they forgot to her the instructors. Reckon?

[golfing eagles]

I think the Villages Regional Hospital must be a training hospital and they forgot to her the instructors. Reckon?

I "reckon" that's not a very fair statement. You might feel differently if you or a loved one were one of the thousands of lives they saved over the years.

[Avista]

All I know is I have had 2 surgeries at The Villages Hospital and had wonderful care.

[dbussone]

True, but as a matter of practicality I've never heard of this happening. One of my partner's once had a patient who went the ER with a sore throat. He was properly examined by the physician, given a Rx for an antibiotic and sent home. An hour later he was brain dead from an extremely rare form of epiglottitis. Imagine if that patient was seen only by a "first responder", determined to be non-emergent, and transferred to another hospital due to inability to pay and died en route. $h!tst0rm wouldn't even begin to describe it.

As far as a woman in labor goes, there is a clear exception to the COBRA law if the hospital does not provide the service required. But they must be evaluated by the physician and stabilized to the extent possible. They may be transferred even if determined unstable if that option actually lessens the risk, but they better check every box on the COBRA form, send a nurse with the patient, clearly communicate the situation to the accepting physician, and then pray. After all, the COBRA law was passed in response to exactly this situation---an indigent pregnant woman in Texas that was transferred from a private to public hospital due to inability to pay, and had a bad outcome.


Actually I think we agree. The OB case to which you refer occurred in Eagle Pass Texas. A small hospital transferred a patient in active labor who subsequently had a bad outcome. The hospital lost a $120 million suit.

And a physician on call for the ER might be sued, but the primary defendants would be the hospital and ER physicians.

I was trying to keep the explanation relatively simple. That was a mistake. It's not simple at all.

I know of many instances where non-emergent patients were discharged from an ER with a list given of more appropriate facilities where care might be provided. Doesn't happen often in a small-medium hospital ER - but fairly common in a Level 1 trauma center.

[golfing eagles]

:agree:

[Madelaine Amee]

We have both had successful surgeries at TV hospital, but until today we have never been to the Emergency Room.

This morning my other half (who still thinks he is 25) fell at Laurel Manor and hit his head, because this accident happened at LM they refused to let him leave and called for an ambulance to get him to the Emergency Room which was literally overflowing with people.

He got to Emergency at approximately 11am, he was put into a wheel chair, wrapped in warm blankets and taken off for a cat scan of his head. The hospital called me at home and I immediately joined him to wait for the results. We both sat there until 2:35pm. I could not believe how people treat the staff because they have to wait for attention. One person sitting in a wheeled reclining chair of some sort, also wrapped in blankets, started to tell me what she thought of this particular hospital and how they absolutely did not know what they were doing. I sat and listened to her until the top of my head blew off and I suggested she would be better off talking to someone who wanted to hear her continual complaining, at which point she pulled out her phone and started making "help me" calls.

At about 2pm we were called and my other half was wheeled into a room to meet with a doctor who profusely apologized for the wait. We then had a nurse come over and give my husband a tetanus shot, she then took out the IV and other vital sign attachments he was wearing from the ambulance trip. After making sure he was capable of walking we were escorted out, taken to the golf cart valet cart and taken back to our car.

From the time the ambulance picked him up, to the time we were released, we had absolutely NOTHING but the best of treatment and certainly NOTHING to complain about.

I am used to the Beth Israel in Boston and I did have to be in their emergency room just once, and I can assure you the staff at the Beth Israel would never put up with what our staff here have to take.

We are lucky to have a local hospital like this - now let the ranting begin!

[dbussone]

We have both had successful surgeries at TV hospital, but until today we have never been to the Emergency Room.



This morning my other half (who still thinks he is 25) fell at Laurel Manor and hit his head, because this accident happened at LM they refused to let him leave and called for an ambulance to get him to the Emergency Room which was literally overflowing with people.



He got to Emergency at approximately 11am, he was put into a wheel chair, wrapped in warm blankets and taken off for a cat scan of his head. The hospital called me at home and I immediately joined him to wait for the results. We both sat there until 2:35pm. I could not believe how people treat the staff because they have to wait for attention. One person sitting in a wheeled reclining chair of some sort, also wrapped in blankets, started to tell me what she thought of this particular hospital and how they absolutely did not know what they were doing. I sat and listened to her until the top of my head blew off and I suggested she would be better off talking to someone who wanted to hear her continual complaining, at which point she pulled out her phone and started making "help me" calls.



At about 2pm we were called and my other half was wheeled into a room to meet with a doctor who profusely apologized for the wait. We then had a nurse come over and give my husband a tetanus shot, she then took out the IV and other vital sign attachments he was wearing from the ambulance trip. After making sure he was capable of walking we were escorted out, taken to the golf cart valet cart and taken back to our car.



From the time the ambulance picked him up, to the time we were released, we had absolutely NOTHING but the best of treatment and certainly NOTHING to complain about.



I am used to the Beth Israel in Boston and I did have to be in their emergency room just once, and I can assure you the staff at the Beth Israel would never put up with what our staff here have to take.



We are lucky to have a local hospital like this - now let the ranting begin!


MA - wonderful report. I'm pleased everything is ok. And this is an excellent sign of progress in the ER at TVRH.

[Licismom]

Rating of TVRH The Villages Regional Hospital in The Villages, FL | US News Best Hospitals (http://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/area/fl/the-villages-health-system-6390102)

[dbussone]

Rating of TVRH The Villages Regional Hospital in The Villages, FL | US News Best Hospitals (http://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/area/fl/the-villages-health-system-6390102)


Why don't you summarize for everyone. I've followed these reports for several years. Save others the trouble.

[gage405]

I went to the ER at The Villages Hospital at 1:15 p.m. on Tuesday, October 27 and was triaged maybe within an hour or two. But, I was not seen by an ER doctor until 11:00 p.m. that evening. I was unable to walk to so I had no choice but to wait. I was not in pain. But, my condition was such that I had surgery and was hospitalized for two weeks.
It was only by the grace of God that I did not lose my mind during those 10 hours of waiting in the ER.
My care in The Villages hospital and later in the Leesburg Hospital was excellent. By the way, I think I would go to Leesburg if I thought I were going to be hospitalized because they have private rooms whereas The Villages has semi-private rooms.

[Madelaine Amee]

I went to the ER at The Villages Hospital at 1:15 p.m. on Tuesday, October 27 and was triaged maybe within an hour or two. But, I was not seen by an ER doctor until 11:00 p.m. that evening. I was unable to walk to so I had no choice but to wait. I was not in pain. But, my condition was such that I had surgery and was hospitalized for two weeks.
It was only by the grace of God that I did not lose my mind during those 10 hours of waiting in the ER.
My care in The Villages hospital and later in the Leesburg Hospital was excellent. By the way, I think I would go to Leesburg if I thought I were going to be hospitalized because they have private rooms whereas The Villages has semi-private rooms.

The Village Hospital has private rooms. My husband was in a private room after his surgery, as was my friend. I was in a semi private room. Depends on the medical problem.

[dbussone]

The Village Hospital has private rooms. My husband was in a private room after his surgery, as was my friend. I was in a semi private room. Depends on the medical problem.


It also depends on availability. In season they will use most rooms as semiprivate to increase their ability to handle patient volume.

[Mudder]

Leesburg has plenty of semi private rooms, I was recently in a very crowded one for 8 days. Villages rooms are much bigger especially when they have to fit two patients in one room. It depends on bed availability, staff availability as to what you get.

[Bonny]

I have also been in both hospitals private & semi private rooms.

[dillywho]

For anyone who gets upset over long waits in the ER waiting to be seen or for those already seen who have to wait hours waiting for a bed upstairs, you are still very fortunate to be here.

Last week, I read about a young lady in Canada who died because there was not a bed available for her......for months. She was awaiting a bone marrow transplant. There were plenty of donors and plenty of matches, but there were no beds available in the hospital. She finally ended up in a California hospital, got the transplant, but by then it was too late for the transplant to be effective. So sad. She was only 17 or 18.

[Licismom]

I have had the same type experience in the ER at TVRH as many others. I also have a background of over 45 years in medical care, so when the questionnaire came asking about my experience at the TVRH, I took the time to respond. In addition, I took extra time to write a personal letter to the RN listed as being in charge of Quality Improvement. I reported to her on the violations in safety, medical best practices and the failure of the lab to perform a specifically ordered test that would have verified that the proper med was being administered. I was polite and factual. That was over 2 full months ago. I have yet to receive an acknowledgement of my letter, much less a "thank you." The only way TVRH is going to improve is if the citizens of TV demand to have a say in how it is run. OR some citizens decide to sue. I'd hate for the latter to have to be the ultimate outcome but if the only thing they understand is money, hit them in the pocketbook.

[dbussone]

I have had the same type experience in the ER at TVRH as many others. I also have a background of over 45 years in medical care, so when the questionnaire came asking about my experience at the TVRH, I took the time to respond. In addition, I took extra time to write a personal letter to the RN listed as being in charge of Quality Improvement. I reported to her on the violations in safety, medical best practices and the failure of the lab to perform a specifically ordered test that would have verified that the proper med was being administered. I was polite and factual. That was over 2 full months ago. I have yet to receive an acknowledgement of my letter, much less a "thank you." The only way TVRH is going to improve is if the citizens of TV demand to have a say in how it is run. OR some citizens decide to sue. I'd hate for the latter to have to be the ultimate outcome but if the only thing they understand is money, hit them in the pocketbook.



Having an appropriate institutional focus on quality, safety, and excellent patient care would go a lot further than legal action.

[Aloha1]

Tuesday night, 5/17. Serious rain storm. Managed to break a toe at 7PM by banging it into a table leg at the Townplace Suites at Spanish Springs. Toe was at a 90 degree angle ( not good) and immediately went to TVRH Emergency. Sat there for over an hour before someone came to take me to X-ray. After X-ray, waited another hour before the attending Physician came in. After determining that I was from out of state , she did not even bother to try and reset the bones but simply put a very loose wrap around the toe and said "go see your Dr. when you get home". My Orthopedic appointment at 40 hours after the injury was basically "WTF? They didn't even reset the bones??". We are now contacting Morgan & Morgan.

The bottom line is The Villages uses the proximity of health care as a selling point. The "family" needs to do a serious review of that issue and use their influence to fix this before people die due to incompetence. For the record, my wife is a retired medical professional, my son is a primary care physician and my daughter is a well trained Emergency Department physician.I was on staff at the American College of Emergency Physicians. None of the personnel we encountered at TVRH ER would have been hired or maintained on job at a serious hospital.

One more thing, I was the only person in the waiting room.

[Aloha1]

I will add that the reason we were at Townplace Suites was to buy furniture, etc. for our new home in The Village of Pine Ridge. I am not left with a warm feeling about health care in The Villages.

[Aloha1]

We have both had successful surgeries at TV hospital, but until today we have never been to the Emergency Room.

This morning my other half (who still thinks he is 25) fell at Laurel Manor and hit his head, because this accident happened at LM they refused to let him leave and called for an ambulance to get him to the Emergency Room which was literally overflowing with people.

He got to Emergency at approximately 11am, he was put into a wheel chair, wrapped in warm blankets and taken off for a cat scan of his head. The hospital called me at home and I immediately joined him to wait for the results. We both sat there until 2:35pm. I could not believe how people treat the staff because they have to wait for attention. One person sitting in a wheeled reclining chair of some sort, also wrapped in blankets, started to tell me what she thought of this particular hospital and how they absolutely did not know what they were doing. I sat and listened to her until the top of my head blew off and I suggested she would be better off talking to someone who wanted to hear her continual complaining, at which point she pulled out her phone and started making "help me" calls.

At about 2pm we were called and my other half was wheeled into a room to meet with a doctor who profusely apologized for the wait. We then had a nurse come over and give my husband a tetanus shot, she then took out the IV and other vital sign attachments he was wearing from the ambulance trip. After making sure he was capable of walking we were escorted out, taken to the golf cart valet cart and taken back to our car.

From the time the ambulance picked him up, to the time we were released, we had absolutely NOTHING but the best of treatment and certainly NOTHING to complain about.

I am used to the Beth Israel in Boston and I did have to be in their emergency room just once, and I can assure you the staff at the Beth Israel would never put up with what our staff here have to take.

We are lucky to have a local hospital like this - now let the ranting begin!

A 3 hour wait for what could have been a serious head trauma is unacceptable at any hospital. Yet, I am glad your husband came thru OK.

[Aloha1]

Rating of TVRH The Villages Regional Hospital in The Villages, FL | US News Best Hospitals (http://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/area/fl/the-villages-health-system-6390102)

It amazes me that at a hospital where there is the potential for a significant number of Emergency Department visits, there is not ONE certified Emergency Department Physician on staff??

[NYGUY]

It amazes me that at a hospital where there is the potential for a significant number of Emergency Department visits, there is not ONE certified Emergency Department Physician on staff??

You have to remember we sell houses, we promote health care!!

[ColdNoMore]

\\\

[goodtimesintv]

It amazes me that at a hospital where there is the potential for a significant number of Emergency Department visits, there is not ONE certified Emergency Department Physician on staff??

Not a fan of TVRH and Leesburg hospitals at all, but to be fully informed, the actual hospital directory of drs. by specialty of Emergency Medicine is more informative......

There are 31 and most are board certified:
Leesburg Regional Medical Center | Central Florida Health Alliance | Leesburg, Florida (http://leesburgregional.photobooks.com/directory/list.asp?dbase=main&setsize=5&last=&first=&facility=&practice=&specialty=7&city=&keyword=)

[outlaw]

Tuesday night, 5/17. Serious rain storm. Managed to break a toe at 7PM by banging it into a table leg at the Townplace Suites at Spanish Springs. Toe was at a 90 degree angle ( not good) and immediately went to TVRH Emergency. Sat there for over an hour before someone came to take me to X-ray. After X-ray, waited another hour before the attending Physician came in. After determining that I was from out of state , she did not even bother to try and reset the bones but simply put a very loose wrap around the toe and said "go see your Dr. when you get home". My Orthopedic appointment at 40 hours after the injury was basically "WTF? They didn't even reset the bones??". We are now contacting Morgan & Morgan.

The bottom line is The Villages uses the proximity of health care as a selling point. The "family" needs to do a serious review of that issue and use their influence to fix this before people die due to incompetence. For the record, my wife is a retired medical professional, my son is a primary care physician and my daughter is a well trained Emergency Department physician.I was on staff at the American College of Emergency Physicians. None of the personnel we encountered at TVRH ER would have been hired or maintained on job at a serious hospital.

One more thing, I was the only person in the waiting room.

Wow! You definitely have medicine in your DNA. You could have a real "family practice". Too bad about your experience. I am disappointed regarding health care in this area. When I moved here, I thought the health care was going to be one of the benefits of living in TV. But it has turned out not to be the case. After finally finding a doctor that I felt good about, I got the extortion letter. Now I'm back to looking for a good primary care physician. I had such good, experienced doctors and specialists in my previous home area. I'm seriously considering driving back there once a year for checkups/procedures.

[outlaw]

You have to remember we sell houses, we promote health care!!

Beautiful health care buildings too.

[RickeyD]

Tuesday night, 5/17. Serious rain storm. Managed to break a toe at 7PM by banging it into a table leg at the Townplace Suites at Spanish Springs. Toe was at a 90 degree angle ( not good) and immediately went to TVRH Emergency. Sat there for over an hour before someone came to take me to X-ray. After X-ray, waited another hour before the attending Physician came in. After determining that I was from out of state , she did not even bother to try and reset the bones but simply put a very loose wrap around the toe and said "go see your Dr. when you get home". My Orthopedic appointment at 40 hours after the injury was basically "WTF? They didn't even reset the bones??". We are now contacting Morgan & Morgan.

The bottom line is The Villages uses the proximity of health care as a selling point. The "family" needs to do a serious review of that issue and use their influence to fix this before people die due to incompetence. For the record, my wife is a retired medical professional, my son is a primary care physician and my daughter is a well trained Emergency Department physician.I was on staff at the American College of Emergency Physicians. None of the personnel we encountered at TVRH ER would have been hired or maintained on job at a serious hospital.

One more thing, I was the only person in the waiting room.



Wow ! Your story sounds like you were in Mexico without a credit card.

[dbussone]

Wow! You definitely have medicine in your DNA. You could have a real "family practice". Too bad about your experience. I am disappointed regarding health care in this area. When I moved here, I thought the health care was going to be one of the benefits of living in TV. But it has turned out not to be the case. After finally finding a doctor that I felt good about, I got the extortion letter. Now I'm back to looking for a good primary care physician. I had such good, experienced doctors and specialists in my previous home area. I'm seriously considering driving back there once a year for checkups/procedures.



There are numerous competent physicians in the area of TV if you do your homework and the right research. If you don't like the physicians here, there are superb docs in Gainesville, Orlando, and Tampa. But you still have to do your homework.

It's no different than in any other community where you might live, except we are not an urban area and have fewer to select from.

[784caroline]

We also had a situation with the TV hospital where they wanted about $600 for elective surgery. They demanded payment up front. I actually called BCBS in Jacksonville and they were very helpful in trying to talk sense to the the hospital. MY argument is that is they are a "Preferred" hospital within the BCBS system, and we should be able to wait for the BCBS Explaination Of Benefits (EOB) before we make any payment. I also wrote a letter to BCBS and the HOspital Administrator voicing my concerns about the billing practice.....and these practices are being applied to people with fairly decent insurance!!!!!!!!!

On the day of surgery at check in, the hospital person said I see you have been in touch with our administrators regarding your copay...I said yes. They "asked" me ...yes asked me if I would like to make any pre payment and I said I will pay $100 and await the EOB before I make final payment. They accepted the $100...had the surgery and I paid another $150 or so that was my copay...but not the $600 they originally were asking.

Suggest you complain to BCBS or write them a letter explaining what happened and send a copy to the hospital administrator. IF BCBS gets enough of these, the hospital could be in Jeapordy of losing there preferred BCBS status...and I don't think they want to lost that. The hospital will try and get as much as they can from you up front...fight back and use BCBS's help if you need it.

[Bjeanj]

Since moving here a year ago, I have seen an almost constant series of threads complaining about the emergency room -NOT the surgical/post surgical/illness part of the hospital. This caused me to do some research, as my husband and I both have had need of an ER in the past. Note that I had a knee replacement done at The Villages Hospital. Super experience, totally separate from the ER.

As I write this, the "average" wait time at Ocala ER is 3 minutes to see a medical practitioner (About | Ocala Health | Ocala, FL (http://ocalahealthsystem.com/about/)), Leesburg is 7 minutes wait time and Villages Hospital is 23 minutes (Central Florida Health | Leesburg, Florida (http://www.centralfloridahealth.org)). If my spouse is having a heart attack or has a bone protruding from his skin, I'd let the ambulance take him to the closest ER. However, if we were in pain but could hold off treatment for a bit, I am leaning toward going to Ocala (30 minute drive) due not only to probable shorter wait times, but general attitude/professionalism that I seem to be picking up from local comments. Before we moved it took about 20 minutes to get to an ER, so it doesn't seem like much of a stretch to go to Ocala.

I think it is prudent to at least have a plan in place. Everyone is different. This is just my plan.

[Aloha1]

Not a fan of TVRH and Leesburg hospitals at all, but to be fully informed, the actual hospital directory of drs. by specialty of Emergency Medicine is more informative......

There are 31 and most are board certified:
Leesburg Regional Medical Center | Central Florida Health Alliance | Leesburg, Florida (http://leesburgregional.photobooks.com/directory/list.asp?dbase=main&setsize=5&last=&first=&facility=&practice=&specialty=7&city=&keyword=)

Thanks for that link. I was queuing off the post listing the staff. Too bad none of them were on duty Tuesday.

[Aloha1]

Wow ! Your story sounds like you were in Mexico without a credit card.

That would be our previous abode, Maui. 1 hour to the only hospital on island via a 2 lane road thru the mountains that could be closed at any time by a landslide, brush fire, or accident. When my wife had a medical incident that required me to get her to the ER ASAP, it took one hour. Fortunately it turned out to not be a life threatening issue but it caused us to rethink our retirement plans and so that's why the Villages.

[Aloha1]

There are numerous competent physicians in the area of TV if you do your homework and the right research. If you don't like the physicians here, there are superb docs in Gainesville, Orlando, and Tampa. But you still have to do your homework.

It's no different than in any other community where you might live, except we are not an urban area and have fewer to select from.

From my brief research, I absolutely agree with you. The concern is in the front line Emergency Department system at TVRH. EM trained and certified Physicians should be on staff at all times, IMHO. One does not plan the unexpected and when it occurs, it does not matter how good your regular Docs are. They won't be in the ED to treat you.

[nana13]

I will not go back to the ER at TVRH. My experience was a nightmare, however I will say my son came to visit and had a heart attack while he was here visiting,(he has a history of heart problems) When we arrived at the ER I told them he had a history of heart problems and thought he might be having a heart attack, he was immediately admitted, and sent upstairs and within hours had two stints put in. He is a Vet. and we did not have time to take him to Gainsville. He received very good care, however, a year later I was in the same place,(for different reason) and my experience turned into a nightmare, not to speak of all the roaches that were in the room, plus old syringes under the bed. I will not go any further, but will go to Ocala from now on.

[dbussone]

From my brief research, I absolutely agree with you. The concern is in the front line Emergency Department system at TVRH. EM trained and certified Physicians should be on staff at all times, IMHO. One does not plan the unexpected and when it occurs, it does not matter how good your regular Docs are. They won't be in the ED to treat you.



I don't know their qualifications in the ER, but you are absolutely correct.

[dbussone]

I will not go back to the ER at TVRH. My experience was a nightmare, however I will say my son came to visit and had a heart attack while he was here visiting,(he has a history of heart problems) When we arrived at the ER I told them he had a history of heart problems and thought he might be having a heart attack, he was immediately admitted, and sent upstairs and within hours had two stints put in. He is a Vet. and we did not have time to take him to Gainsville. He received very good care, however, a year later I was in the same place,(for different reason) and my experience turned into a nightmare, not to speak of all the roaches that were in the room, plus old syringes under the bed. I will not go any further, but will go to Ocala from now on.



Villagers (and others who use a hospital here) - there is never any excuse for a dirty area or room in a hospital. Absolutely no excuse. I encourage you to report these conditions to the nurse manager, nursing director, or ceo - someone in authority. No decent hospital executive wants to have conditions like that in their facility. If you don't get satisfaction, please report the condition you noted to the FL State Department of Health. They will see that the issue is resolved. And if you or one of your visitors has a smart phone, take pictures so you can visually demonstrate what you experienced.

Hospitals are dangerous enough places because of germs and other seen and unseen dangers. Don't tolerate filthy conditions or subject yourself to them. I worked in healthcare for about 40 years. I won't put up with filth and neither should you.

[57ChevyFI]

Tuesday night, 5/17. Serious rain storm. Managed to break a toe at 7PM by banging it into a table leg at the Townplace Suites at Spanish Springs. Toe was at a 90 degree angle ( not good) and immediately went to TVRH Emergency. Sat there for over an hour before someone came to take me to X-ray. After X-ray, waited another hour before the attending Physician came in. After determining that I was from out of state , she did not even bother to try and reset the bones but simply put a very loose wrap around the toe and said "go see your Dr. when you get home". My Orthopedic appointment at 40 hours after the injury was basically "WTF? They didn't even reset the bones??". We are now contacting Morgan & Morgan.

The bottom line is The Villages uses the proximity of health care as a selling point. The "family" needs to do a serious review of that issue and use their influence to fix this before people die due to incompetence. For the record, my wife is a retired medical professional, my son is a primary care physician and my daughter is a well trained Emergency Department physician.I was on staff at the American College of Emergency Physicians. None of the personnel we encountered at TVRH ER would have been hired or maintained on job at a serious hospital.

One more thing, I was the only person in the waiting room.

Let me get this straight--you went to an EMERGENCY ROOM for a broken toe? I'm sorry it happened, but Broken TOE? You waited ONE HOUR for an X-ray? Then another HOUR for a doctor to come in?

Let me assure you this: The average wait time for ANY emergency is actually longer- you could do your research for that as well to verify. Since you have been on staff for the American College of Emergency Physicians and have a well rounded medical family-you should be aware that you were in fact NOT A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Unless you are on a blood thinner and your TOE is cut off or blue numb tip of toe--it is NOT an emergency for your toe to be deformed due to trauma. I am sure to you the deformity alone was alarming-but while your neighboring Villager was having a stroke, heart attack or inability to breathe without life saving interventions, your X-RAY is LAST on the list in the line waiting. You are a ESI-LEVEL 4. See example below how Emergency Room's triage on ESI LEVEL.

"From a clinical standpoint, ESI level 4 and 5 patients are stable and can wait several hours to be seen by a provider. However, from a customer service standpoint, these patients are perhaps better served in a fast-track or urgent care area. Mid-level practitioners with the appropriate skills mix and supervision could care for level-4 and level-5 patients. With ESI, level-5 patients can sometimes be "worked in" for a quick exam and disposition by the provider, even if the department is at capacity. Often triage policies clearly state ESI level-4 or -5 patients can be triaged to an urgent care or fast-track area. "
Site: Chapter 4. ESI Levels 3-5 and Expected Resource Needs | Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (http://www.ahrq.gov/professionals/systems/hospital/esi/esi4.html)

I certainly hope that you discussed why the doctor did not attempt to reset your toe before you left the ER. No patient is ever denied care by law and if you believe your care was negligent, certainly you have a right to pursue and have a hearing for your case. I find it comical that you believe that once the doctor found out you were from out of state, she did not attempt to reset your toe on that sole fact you were not a resident. You think the doctor is what--anti- SNOW BIRD? Really? How many out of state patients do you think go through the hospital? The doctor was probably not even a resident here either for goodness sake.

I think your comment about people dying for being incompetent and the "family" needs to step in- is extreme for someone upset their toe wasn't reset by an emergency room physician and waited two hours for treatment. Why did it take so long to get an orthopedic appointment, if it was still an EMERGENCY to get set in place, why are you not considering suing the Orthopedic MD too-because they neglected to take you first thing Wednesday AM when they opened.

For those who will drive 30 minutes for shorter ER times, consider waiting on talking to your own physician since you are obviously not having an emergency-if you have time to drive that far safely. Most doctors have on-call service and someone will call you back after hours and can give advice on what to do before you go searching for an emergency room with shorter wait times. If you are having a true emergency remember dial 9-1-1 and help will assist you the fastest.

[graciegirl]

Let me get this straight--you went to an EMERGENCY ROOM for a broken toe? I'm sorry it happened, but Broken TOE? You waited ONE HOUR for an X-ray? Then another HOUR for a doctor to come in?

Let me assure you this: The average wait time for ANY emergency is actually longer- you could do your research for that as well to verify. Since you have been on staff for the American College of Emergency Physicians and have a well rounded medical family-you should be aware that you were in fact NOT A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Unless you are on a blood thinner and your TOE is cut off or blue numb tip of toe--it is NOT an emergency for your toe to be deformed due to trauma. I am sure to you the deformity alone was alarming-but while your neighboring Villager was having a stroke, heart attack or inability to breathe without life saving interventions, your X-RAY is LAST on the list in the line waiting. You are a ESI-LEVEL 4. See example below how Emergency Room's triage on ESI LEVEL.

"From a clinical standpoint, ESI level 4 and 5 patients are stable and can wait several hours to be seen by a provider. However, from a customer service standpoint, these patients are perhaps better served in a fast-track or urgent care area. Mid-level practitioners with the appropriate skills mix and supervision could care for level-4 and level-5 patients. With ESI, level-5 patients can sometimes be "worked in" for a quick exam and disposition by the provider, even if the department is at capacity. Often triage policies clearly state ESI level-4 or -5 patients can be triaged to an urgent care or fast-track area. "
Site: Chapter 4. ESI Levels 3-5 and Expected Resource Needs | Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (http://www.ahrq.gov/professionals/systems/hospital/esi/esi4.html)

I certainly hope that you discussed why the doctor did not attempt to reset your toe before you left the ER. No patient is ever denied care by law and if you believe your care was negligent, certainly you have a right to pursue and have a hearing for your case. I find it comical that you believe that once the doctor found out you were from out of state, she did not attempt to reset your toe on that sole fact you were not a resident. You think the doctor is what--anti- SNOW BIRD? Really? How many out of state patients do you think go through the hospital? The doctor was probably not even a resident here either for goodness sake.

I think your comment about people dying for being incompetent and the "family" needs to step in- is extreme for someone upset their toe wasn't reset by an emergency room physician and waited two hours for treatment. Why did it take so long to get an orthopedic appointment, if it was still an EMERGENCY to get set in place, why are you not considering suing the Orthopedic MD too-because they neglected to take you first thing Wednesday AM when they opened.

For those who will drive 30 minutes for shorter ER times, consider waiting on talking to your own physician since you are obviously not having an emergency-if you have time to drive that far safely. Most doctors have on-call service and someone will call you back after hours and can give advice on what to do before you go searching for an emergency room with shorter wait times. If you are having a true emergency remember dial 9-1-1 and help will assist you the fastest.

Please read this above and read it again, then read it one more time...not everyone. Just the people who need to read it and won't read it and think it is for them.


I have had several broken toes and never sought medical help. AND I have been to the Villages Hospital several times to visit and to take our grandson for an Asthma attack and I am skeptical about dirt and roaches. I have never seen anything like dirt and roaches. I just can't sit here and not say something. I wish we had finer doctors here and a truly wonderful geriatric teaching hospital and there are practices I am not liking...it seems that getting a gall bladder surgery can keep you in a hospital too long and makes me wonder whether they are trying to make more money. There are levels in hospitals and this isn't Boston Childrens or Sloan Kettering or the Cleveland Clinic. The hospital was built by the developer but the hospital isn't run by the developer. He gets rent, that is it and you can't make great hospitals happen anymore than you can make Costco move here.

[dbussone]

Let me get this straight--you went to an EMERGENCY ROOM for a broken toe? I'm sorry it happened, but Broken TOE? You waited ONE HOUR for an X-ray? Then another HOUR for a doctor to come in?



Let me assure you this: The average wait time for ANY emergency is actually longer- you could do your research for that as well to verify. Since you have been on staff for the American College of Emergency Physicians and have a well rounded medical family-you should be aware that you were in fact NOT A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.



Unless you are on a blood thinner and your TOE is cut off or blue numb tip of toe--it is NOT an emergency for your toe to be deformed due to trauma. I am sure to you the deformity alone was alarming-but while your neighboring Villager was having a stroke, heart attack or inability to breathe without life saving interventions, your X-RAY is LAST on the list in the line waiting. You are a ESI-LEVEL 4. See example below how Emergency Room's triage on ESI LEVEL.



"From a clinical standpoint, ESI level 4 and 5 patients are stable and can wait several hours to be seen by a provider. However, from a customer service standpoint, these patients are perhaps better served in a fast-track or urgent care area. Mid-level practitioners with the appropriate skills mix and supervision could care for level-4 and level-5 patients. With ESI, level-5 patients can sometimes be "worked in" for a quick exam and disposition by the provider, even if the department is at capacity. Often triage policies clearly state ESI level-4 or -5 patients can be triaged to an urgent care or fast-track area. "

Site: Chapter 4. ESI Levels 3-5 and Expected Resource Needs | Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (http://www.ahrq.gov/professionals/systems/hospital/esi/esi4.html)



I certainly hope that you discussed why the doctor did not attempt to reset your toe before you left the ER. No patient is ever denied care by law and if you believe your care was negligent, certainly you have a right to pursue and have a hearing for your case. I find it comical that you believe that once the doctor found out you were from out of state, she did not attempt to reset your toe on that sole fact you were not a resident. You think the doctor is what--anti- SNOW BIRD? Really? How many out of state patients do you think go through the hospital? The doctor was probably not even a resident here either for goodness sake.



I think your comment about people dying for being incompetent and the "family" needs to step in- is extreme for someone upset their toe wasn't reset by an emergency room physician and waited two hours for treatment. Why did it take so long to get an orthopedic appointment, if it was still an EMERGENCY to get set in place, why are you not considering suing the Orthopedic MD too-because they neglected to take you first thing Wednesday AM when they opened.



For those who will drive 30 minutes for shorter ER times, consider waiting on talking to your own physician since you are obviously not having an emergency-if you have time to drive that far safely. Most doctors have on-call service and someone will call you back after hours and can give advice on what to do before you go searching for an emergency room with shorter wait times. If you are having a true emergency remember dial 9-1-1 and help will assist you the fastest.



Your post is very good, and largely accurate. However, there is one point I would like to correct. A patient MAY legally be denied care by an ER. Only a truly emergent patient MUST be provided care (or a woman in active labor). If, upon a brief evaluation by a trained medical professional (doctor or nurse) during triage, a patient is determined to have a non-emergent condition, the patient may be referred to a lesser level of care.

Most hospitals, as a practical matter, shy away from turning patients away because of public relations. But it is legal to do so. In some communities it is done as a matter of practice due to excessive ER volume, and in order to keep an ER open to true emergency patients. How do I know this - I paid $$$$$ for excellent attorneys to render an opinion and develop the policy/procedure for this. Then I submitted them to CMS for review - CMS agreed they were consistent with the law.

[Aloha1]

Let me get this straight--you went to an EMERGENCY ROOM for a broken toe? I'm sorry it happened, but Broken TOE? You waited ONE HOUR for an X-ray? Then another HOUR for a doctor to come in?

Let me assure you this: The average wait time for ANY emergency is actually longer- you could do your research for that as well to verify. Since you have been on staff for the American College of Emergency Physicians and have a well rounded medical family-you should be aware that you were in fact NOT A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Unless you are on a blood thinner and your TOE is cut off or blue numb tip of toe--it is NOT an emergency for your toe to be deformed due to trauma. I am sure to you the deformity alone was alarming-but while your neighboring Villager was having a stroke, heart attack or inability to breathe without life saving interventions, your X-RAY is LAST on the list in the line waiting. You are a ESI-LEVEL 4. See example below how Emergency Room's triage on ESI LEVEL.

"From a clinical standpoint, ESI level 4 and 5 patients are stable and can wait several hours to be seen by a provider. However, from a customer service standpoint, these patients are perhaps better served in a fast-track or urgent care area. Mid-level practitioners with the appropriate skills mix and supervision could care for level-4 and level-5 patients. With ESI, level-5 patients can sometimes be "worked in" for a quick exam and disposition by the provider, even if the department is at capacity. Often triage policies clearly state ESI level-4 or -5 patients can be triaged to an urgent care or fast-track area. "
Site: Chapter 4. ESI Levels 3-5 and Expected Resource Needs | Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (http://www.ahrq.gov/professionals/systems/hospital/esi/esi4.html)

I certainly hope that you discussed why the doctor did not attempt to reset your toe before you left the ER. No patient is ever denied care by law and if you believe your care was negligent, certainly you have a right to pursue and have a hearing for your case. I find it comical that you believe that once the doctor found out you were from out of state, she did not attempt to reset your toe on that sole fact you were not a resident. You think the doctor is what--anti- SNOW BIRD? Really? How many out of state patients do you think go through the hospital? The doctor was probably not even a resident here either for goodness sake.

I think your comment about people dying for being incompetent and the "family" needs to step in- is extreme for someone upset their toe wasn't reset by an emergency room physician and waited two hours for treatment. Why did it take so long to get an orthopedic appointment, if it was still an EMERGENCY to get set in place, why are you not considering suing the Orthopedic MD too-because they neglected to take you first thing Wednesday AM when they opened.

For those who will drive 30 minutes for shorter ER times, consider waiting on talking to your own physician since you are obviously not having an emergency-if you have time to drive that far safely. Most doctors have on-call service and someone will call you back after hours and can give advice on what to do before you go searching for an emergency room with shorter wait times. If you are having a true emergency remember dial 9-1-1 and help will assist you the fastest.

Perhaps you did not read my original post carefully enough. We were visiting and staying at Townplace Suites. Being unfamiliar with the area, we were directed to TVRH by the hotel staff as it is less than 5 minutes from that hotel. It was 7 PM and every other office was closed. The toe was at a 90 degree angle from normal which on whatever reference you wish to use requires immediate medical attention. Upon arriving at TVRH, I went to the Urgent Care section to the right. They took one look at the toe and directed me to Emergency. I was the only person in the waiting room and there was only one other person currently being seen by a physician. And FYI, I clearly understand the Triage system and I also understand that that comes into play when you do have multiple incidents requiring such triage. This was not the case last Tuesday night.

We were leaving TV Wednesday morning and did not arrive back home until after 5PM. I was in contact with my Primary first thing that morning and got in to an Orthopod first thing Thursday morning to have the fracture properly reduced and set.

My beef was and is that the Attending never bothered to set the bone but instead simply buddy taped it despite having the necessary x-rays to accomplish that. It seemed that once they ascertained that we were from out of state, that was the end of it as far as they were concerned. And it was immediately after I said we were flying out the next morning that all that was done was to buddy tape the toe without setting it. That's a fact. Perhaps I should have argued more about it but pain has a way of blocking clear thought at times.

You can make of this what you will but I stand by my concerns. I will add that the Radiology Tech was very professional and knew her business, the waiting area was clean and the reception staff friendly.

[RedChariot]

Perhaps you did not read my original post carefully enough. We were visiting and staying at Townplace Suites. Being unfamiliar with the area, we were directed to TVRH by the hotel staff as it is less than 5 minutes from that hotel. It was 7 PM and every other office was closed. The toe was at a 90 degree angle from normal which on whatever reference you wish to use requires immediate medical attention. Upon arriving at TVRH, I went to the Urgent Care section to the right. They took one look at the toe and directed me to Emergency. I was the only person in the waiting room and there was only one other person currently being seen by a physician. And FYI, I clearly understand the Triage system and I also understand that that comes into play when you do have multiple incidents requiring such triage. This was not the case last Tuesday night.



We were leaving TV Wednesday morning and did not arrive back home until after 5PM. I was in contact with my Primary first thing that morning and got in to an Orthopod first thing Thursday morning to have the fracture properly reduced and set.




My beef was and is that the Attending never bothered to set the bone but instead simply buddy taped it despite having the necessary x-rays to accomplish that. It seemed that once they ascertained that we were from out of state, that was the end of it as far as they were concerned. And it was immediately after I said we were flying out the next morning that all that was done was to buddy tape the toe without setting it. That's a fact. Perhaps I should have argued more about it but pain has a way of blocking clear thought at times.

You can make of this what you will but I stand by my concerns. I will add that the Radiology Tech was very professional and knew her business, the waiting area was clean and the reception staff friendly.

Not to burst your bubble sweetie, but buddy taping a broken toe is the standard treatment for a broken toe. Walked into a wall in the middle of the night. Toe next to the great toe was at a 90° angle. As a retired RN I know this is not an emergency. I went to bed and saw the podiatrist in the morning. He buddy taped the toe to the next toe. That is the only treatment done for a FX toe.

[Barefoot]

Let me get this straight--you went to an EMERGENCY ROOM for a broken toe? I'm sorry it happened, but Broken TOE? You waited ONE HOUR for an X-ray? Then another HOUR for a doctor to come in?

Let me assure you this: The average wait time for ANY emergency is actually longer- you could do your research for that as well to verify. Since you have been on staff for the American College of Emergency Physicians and have a well rounded medical family-you should be aware that you were in fact NOT A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Unless you are on a blood thinner and your TOE is cut off or blue numb tip of toe--it is NOT an emergency for your toe to be deformed due to trauma. I am sure to you the deformity alone was alarming-but while your neighboring Villager was having a stroke, heart attack or inability to breathe without life saving interventions, your X-RAY is LAST on the list in the line waiting. You are a ESI-LEVEL 4. See example below how Emergency Room's triage on ESI LEVEL.

"From a clinical standpoint, ESI level 4 and 5 patients are stable and can wait several hours to be seen by a provider. However, from a customer service standpoint, these patients are perhaps better served in a fast-track or urgent care area. Mid-level practitioners with the appropriate skills mix and supervision could care for level-4 and level-5 patients. With ESI, level-5 patients can sometimes be "worked in" for a quick exam and disposition by the provider, even if the department is at capacity. Often triage policies clearly state ESI level-4 or -5 patients can be triaged to an urgent care or fast-track area. "
Site: Chapter 4. ESI Levels 3-5 and Expected Resource Needs | Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (http://www.ahrq.gov/professionals/systems/hospital/esi/esi4.html)

I certainly hope that you discussed why the doctor did not attempt to reset your toe before you left the ER. No patient is ever denied care by law and if you believe your care was negligent, certainly you have a right to pursue and have a hearing for your case. I find it comical that you believe that once the doctor found out you were from out of state, she did not attempt to reset your toe on that sole fact you were not a resident. You think the doctor is what--anti- SNOW BIRD? Really? How many out of state patients do you think go through the hospital? The doctor was probably not even a resident here either for goodness sake.

I think your comment about people dying for being incompetent and the "family" needs to step in- is extreme for someone upset their toe wasn't reset by an emergency room physician and waited two hours for treatment. Why did it take so long to get an orthopedic appointment, if it was still an EMERGENCY to get set in place, why are you not considering suing the Orthopedic MD too-because they neglected to take you first thing Wednesday AM when they opened.

For those who will drive 30 minutes for shorter ER times, consider waiting on talking to your own physician since you are obviously not having an emergency-if you have time to drive that far safely. Most doctors have on-call service and someone will call you back after hours and can give advice on what to do before you go searching for an emergency room with shorter wait times. If you are having a true emergency remember dial 9-1-1 and help will assist you the fastest.

Good post!

I've only used TV Emerg once. I was assessed by Triage and seen in an appropriate amount of time.
Aloha said he/she was the only person in the waiting room. Possibly the doctors were working on an emergency patient that was previously admitted; someone very ill suffering a heart attack or stroke.
Could The Villages Hospital be improved? No doubt. However I personally believe that the Triage System works.

[Aloha1]

Not to burst your bubble sweetie, but buddy taping a broken toe is the standard treatment for a broken toe. Walked into a wall in the middle of the night. Toe next to the great toe was at a 90° angle. As a retired RN I know this is not an emergency. I went to bed and saw the podiatrist in the morning. He buddy taped the toe to the next toe. That is the only treatment done for a FX toe.
So you are saying you NEVER reduced the fracture?? You let the two separate bone fragments remain that way?? Good way to end up with a compound situation. Buddy taping IS the standard course of treatment HOWEVER in the presence of a fracture ( break) it is done after the fracture has been reduced.

[Aloha1]

Look, folks, I am not the originator of this thread. I simply posted MY experience. I have tried to be as factual as possible in my restatement of the events. I certainly did not expect to arouse the ire of those who felt the dominant paradigm had been impugned. I feel my post at #95 on this thread most clearly explains the circumstances. Bottom line, no one else on this Forum was there but me. Only I have the X-rays that show the severe nature of the fracture - borderline compound. Only I have the face to face contacts with both the Attending at TVRH and my Orthopod back home. You can debate all you want about TVRH's decision to take me to the ER, but that does not diminish the fact that it was their call. So, while I hobble on crutches for the next 4-6 weeks, I'll still keep a positive attitude that most Villagers are not so quick to rush to judgement. Everyone please have a nice day and remember, life is too short to get into pi**ing matches. Aloha

[Barefoot]

Everyone please have a nice day and remember, life is too short to get into pi**ing matches.
No pi$$ing contests on TOTV. Just other posters stating their opinions and experiences.

[Aloha1]

No pi$$ing contests on TOTV. Just other posters stating their opinions and experiences.

Well, sorry, but that's what it feels like, dare I say, a personal attack on my experience. Not a good feeling. And I just broke my last post by replying so, that's it. Be well

[dotti105]

I haven't bothered to read the previous heated posts. But I will tell you about my only experience with TVRH ER.

We recently moved my 91 yr old Mother to Buffalo Crossings from her home Clearwater Beach. 5 days after she moved in, her morning CNA came in to give her morning meds and wake her up for the day. She found her on the floor bleeding from a large gash on her lower right leg. Apparently she tripped and fell over her walker. She was supposed to have a pendant on which she could use to call for help. She had left it across the room on her dresser. No one knows how long she was on the floor.

She does not have a diagnoses of alzheimers or dementia (although she is often quite confused) therefore the EMS took her to the ER not knowing if she had a concussion. I was called and rushed to the ER to meet her.

Her total time in the ER on a Tuesday morning in July was 1 hr 30 minutes. She required 8 sutures to close a really ugly gash. Her provider was a NP who was great! My dad was an MD and I am a RN, so I am pretty picky about medical care. She received first rate care, promptly and with gentle concern.

So my impression of THRH ER is quite good.